Bushfire Holsworthy: Smoky haze covers Sydney

SYDNEY residents with breathing difficulties are being warned to stay indoors as a thick haze blankets the city following backburning to contain a major blaze in Sydney’s southwest.

SYDNEY is being blanketed by a smoky haze as firefighters continue to backburn following a major blaze which threatened homes in Sydney’s southwest this week.

The fire currently burning within the Holsworthy Range and around Barden Ridge is now contained but crews will remain on scene throughout the day to monitor and consolidate containment lines around the fire.

Smoke from previous backburning operations is affecting the south west as well as the greater Sydney region and the Blue Mountains.

Liverpool and Chullora are the worst affected areas, recording a ‘poor’ air quality rating. Chullora also has poor visibility.

The haze has prompted a warning from NSW Health that children, older adults and people with heart and lung conditions are most susceptible to the effects of air pollution and excessive smoke.

“If you have asthma or a lung condition, reduce outdoor activities if smoke levels are high and if shortness of breath or coughing develops, take your reliever medicine or seek medical advice.

“Asthma sufferers need to follow their Asthma Action Plan and take their relieving medication where necessary. If symptoms get worse, seek medical advice.

TIPS TO STAY SAFE DURING BACKBURNING

* Keep doors and windows closed to prevent smoke from entering your home.

* Remove washing from clotheslines.

* Ensure pets have a protected area.

* If you’re driving through a smoky area, slow down, keep your windows up and turn your headlights on.

* Don’t call triple-0 just to report that it’s smoky. Save triple-0 for emerged